Wiper Linkage

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield wiper linkage assembly on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Plastic cowl clips × 6 — Replacement clips as needed
• Wiper arm nuts (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Windshield Washer Fluid — 0.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes
3. Move wiper arms to service position (if available through vehicle settings) or park position
4. Cover windshield with protective cloth to prevent scratches during procedure
5. Drain windshield washer fluid reservoir if it interferes with cowl removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift wiper arm away from windshield and mark its resting position with tape. Pry up the plastic cap at the base of each wiper arm to expose the retaining nut. Using a 13mm socket, remove the nut securing each wiper arm. Rock the wiper arm gently while pulling away from the base to remove it from the splined shaft. Remove both driver and passenger side wiper arms.
2. 2

   Remove cowl panel and weather seals
   Remove the rubber weather seal along the rear edge of the hood by pulling it from its channel. Using trim removal tools, carefully pry up the plastic cowl panel clips along the cowl grille. There are typically 6-8 clips securing the cowl panel. Work from one side to the other, releasing each clip. Lift the cowl panel up and toward the windshield to disengage it from the locating tabs.
3. 3

   Disconnect washer hoses
   Locate the windshield washer fluid hoses connected to the wiper nozzles on the cowl. Using needle nose pliers, squeeze the hose clamps and slide them back. Gently pull the hoses off the nozzle fittings. Cap or plug the hoses to prevent fluid leakage.
4. 4

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor on the driver side of the cowl area. Press the locking tab on the electrical connector and disconnect it from the wiper motor. Ensure the connector is moved clear of the work area.
   ⚠Verify 12V battery is disconnected before handling electrical connectors
5. 5

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three bolts securing the wiper motor to the vehicle body. Support the wiper motor and linkage assembly as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Disconnect linkage from pivots
   Locate the wiper linkage pivot points on both driver and passenger sides. Using a flat blade screwdriver, carefully pry the linkage ball joints from the pivot shafts. Note the orientation of the linkage arms and any spacers or bushings present.
7. 7

   Remove wiper linkage assembly
   Carefully maneuver the entire wiper linkage and motor assembly out of the cowl area. It may be necessary to rotate or angle the assembly to clear the body structures. Take note of the routing and positioning for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Inspect and prepare new linkage
   Inspect the cowl area for debris and clean as necessary. Examine the pivot shafts for wear or damage. Compare the new linkage assembly to the old one to ensure correct replacement. If reusing the wiper motor, transfer it to the new linkage assembly. Apply a thin coat of white lithium grease to all pivot points and ball joints on the new linkage.
9. 9

   Install new wiper linkage assembly
   Position the new wiper linkage and motor assembly into the cowl area, routing it the same way as the original. Connect the linkage ball joints to the pivot shafts on both sides, ensuring they snap fully into place. Verify all linkage arms move freely without binding.
10. 10

    Install wiper motor mounting bolts
    Position the wiper motor against its mounting surface and install the three 10mm mounting bolts. Tighten bolts in a star pattern to ensure even seating. Since specific torque values are not available, tighten securely but avoid overtightening the threads in the body panel.
11. 11

    Reconnect wiper motor electrical connector
    Plug the electrical connector back into the wiper motor until it clicks into place. Ensure the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged.
12. 12

    Reconnect washer hoses and reinstall cowl
    Push the washer fluid hoses back onto the nozzle fittings and slide the hose clamps into position. Position the cowl panel over the wiper linkage area, engaging the rear locating tabs first. Press down firmly on all clip locations until each clip snaps into place. Reinstall the rubber weather seal along the hood edge.
13. 13

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Align the wiper arms to the marked positions on the windshield. Slide each wiper arm onto its splined shaft, ensuring proper orientation. Install the 13mm retaining nuts and tighten securely. Snap the plastic caps back over the nuts. Verify wiper arms sit flat against the windshield in the park position.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal
2. Refill windshield washer fluid reservoir to proper level
3. Verify all cowl panel clips are fully engaged and the panel is secure
4. Ensure wiper arms are properly aligned with marked positions

Verification

• Turn vehicle to ON position and test wiper operation at all speeds (low, high, intermittent)
• Verify wipers park correctly in the down position when turned off
• Test windshield washer spray function to confirm hose connections are secure
• Check for any unusual noises, binding, or irregular movement during wiper operation
• Inspect cowl area for any gaps or loose clips
• Verify wiper blades make full contact with windshield throughout their sweep pattern

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